Premier League: West Ham United back Graham Potter as manager
What's the story
West Ham United's vice-chair, Karren Brady, has thrown her full support behind manager Graham Potter after a disappointing start to the Premier League season. The Hammers were thrashed 3-0 by newly-promoted Sunderland in their opening match on Saturday. Despite the heavy defeat, Brady has assured that the club won't panic and will give Potter time to turn things around.
Support assurance
Brady praises Potter's calmness under pressure
Speaking to Talksport, Brady described Potter as a "forward-thinking manager" with a calm demeanor under pressure. "Graham is a forward-thinking manager. He's sort of calm under pressure, he's very detailed in his approach, he's a great man-manager of players," said Brady. "He builds a special relationship with players and they understand where he's coming from. Despite the team's poor form since his appointment in January, Brady remains optimistic about Potter's ability to turn things around at West Ham United.
Club philosophy
We don't panic over managerial issues, says Brady
Brady also highlighted West Ham's history of not panicking over managerial issues. She said the club usually supports its managers and sees things through. Despite the team's poor start to the season, Brady is hopeful that Potter will bounce back. "I really hope he does well. He's a pleasure to work with, he's incredibly professional," she added while expressing confidence in Potter's relationship with players and their collective response to recent setbacks.
Team strategy
West Ham field new signings in opening match
In their first match, West Ham fielded new signings El Hadji Malick Diouf and Mads Hermansen. However, they faded after conceding the first goal in the 61st minute. Brady expressed her disappointment over the loss but remained hopeful about the team's spirit and potential for a quick turnaround. "I know we'll see a reaction and I know they want to turn it around," she said of the players' determination to bounce back from this setback.
Information
Sunderland tame West Ham 3-0
West Ham held Sunderland to a 0-0 score until the half hour mark before exploding. Eliezer Mayenda scored the opening goal in the 61st minute with Daniel Ballard adding a 2nd 12 minutes later. Wilson Isidor applied the finishing touches in the 92nd minute.